Defeat for the visiting Rebels denies the county a Munster ‘clean sweep’ – after a glorious summer saw U-17, minor and senior titles collected.

But Cork failed in their quest for a first U-21 crown in 10 years, as Limerick marched on to an All-Ireland semi-final clash with Galway on August 20.

A massive crowd, 11,774, was present at the Gaelic Grounds to witness Limerick claim their eighth Munster U-21 title in all. And Cian Lynch claimed the man-of-the-match award on the back of an industrious performance.

It was that kind of night for Limerick, in marked contrast to their 11 and 13-point victories over Tipperary and Clare in previous outings.

This was much more of a dogfight for Limerick, but they emerged to claim the silverware, as Aaron Gillane top-scored with six pointed frees.

They had roared into a 0-7 to 0-0 lead within 14 minutes, before Cork rallied to trail by just four points at the break, 1-4 to 0-11.

The goal for the Rebels was a real tonic, scored by Tim O’Mahony in the 26th minute. Mark Coleman, a leading contender for the Young Hurler of the Year award, helped to create it with some excellent work inside his own half. Paul Leopold moved the ball inside to O’Mahony and he got inside his man before beating Eoghan McNamara at his near post with a one-handed strike.

Limerick beat Cork to earn second Munster U21 hurling title in three years

Limerick 0-16 Cork 1-11

Report from the Irish Examiner newspaper

A seven-point headstart helped Limerick to their second Munster U21 hurling title in three years. The Treatymen led 0-7 to no-score after 13 minutes, although Cork closed the gap to four at half-time, thanks to Tim O’Mahony’s goal.
But in front of 11,774 fans, Cork couldn’t get any closer than two points as Aaron Gillane’s six converted frees saw Limerick home safely.